Jets would be wise to pass on Hard Knocks appearance

Per a report from Manish Mehta of the NY Daily News, the New York Jets have made it clear that they do not intend to appear on “Hard Knocks” despite interest. This would ultimately be the right decision for the franchise.

The NFL Films series “Hard Knocks” has made for some extremely entertaining television over the 13 seasons the documentary/reality show has aired. In total, 11 different franchises have participated in the documented training camp stalking that occurs each year, the New York Jets being one of them.

And according to a report from Manish Mehta of the NY Daily News, NFL Films reportedly has interest in bringing the Jets on the show once again. Only this time, it doesn’t appear that the team has any mutual desire.

Given the Jets current roster and situation, it makes complete sense that the “Hard Knocks” crew would be interested in following the team. After all, the organization is brimming with exuberant personalities with the likes of Jamal Adams, Adam Gase, and Gregg Williams making their residence on One Jets Drive.

The team has a new head coach in Gase, already rumored coaching staff tension, and a young quarterback they’re trying to develop in Sam Darnold. Throw in the boisterous Adams and the Jets are one of the more appealing options this year.

But even though it might make for good television, it wouldn’t be in the best interest of the team.

Not to use the age-old excuse, but the Jets can ill afford any additional distractions at this moment. The franchise is in the midst of a complete rebuild and this season is expected to be the turning point for the team. The Jets brought in Gase to lead this team out of obscurity with the assistance of Darnold and the roster they build around him.

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It would be foolish to allow any coaching staff quarrels or minor training camp disagreements to be highlighted and exaggerated under the bright lights of Hollywood. The Jets should be focused solely on improving the roster and getting accustomed to the new faces on the team, not worrying about the cameras and production crew that come with the series.

Fortunately, the NFL has rules that would prohibit NFL Films from forcing the team to cooperate. Any team that has a new head coach, has been to the postseason in the last two seasons, or has appeared on the series in the past 10 years is excluded from obligation. Since the Jets fulfill the first and third qualifications, they should be in the clear.

At the same time, the Jets could always change their minds and decide to appear on the show, an opportunity NFL Films would likely jump all over. But in the end, it would be wise for them to avoid an appearance on the series altogether.

For the sake of their young, unestablished team, it simply just isn’t worth it.